The 2027 NX lineup is fully electrified. The NX 350h is a hybrid that never needs a plug, while the NX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid with a 22.7-kWh battery for up to 45 miles of all-electric driving. If you can charge at home, the NX 450h+ lets you handle most daily driving on electricity, and if you can’t, the NX 350h delivers excellent efficiency with zero charging routine. Ask our team about 2027 NX availability.
2027 Lexus NX 350h vs NX 450h+ at a Glance
The 2027 NX lineup is fully electrified, with two ways to save fuel. The NX 350h is a hybrid that never needs a plug, while the NX 450h+ is a plug-in hybrid with a 22.7-kWh battery for up to 45 miles of all-electric driving. If you can charge at home, the NX 450h+ can handle most daily driving on electricity alone, and if you can’t, the NX 350h delivers up to 40 combined mpg with no charging routine at all. The 2027 NX is expected to arrive this winter, so contact our team to reserve yours or get the latest on availability.
Here’s how the four 2027 NX configurations compare on power, efficiency and electric range:
| Model | Powertrain | Drivetrain | Combined hp | 0–60 mph | MPG (city/hwy/combined) | EV range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX 350h | Hybrid | FWD or AWD | 244 | 6.9 sec (FWD); 6.7 sec (AWD) | FWD 44/35/40; AWD 42/34/38 | N/A |
| NX 350h F SPORT | Hybrid | AWD | 244 | 6.7 sec | 41/34/38 | N/A |
| NX 450h+ | Plug-in hybrid | AWD | 324 | 5.7 sec | 39/35/37 | 45 miles |
| NX 450h+ F SPORT | Plug-in hybrid | AWD | 324 | 5.7 sec | 38/34/36 | 45 miles |
Horsepower is a preliminary net combined figure, and fuel economy and range are manufacturer estimates pending final EPA ratings. Both powertrains come in Premium, Premium+, F SPORT and Luxury grades, with 22.7 cubic feet of cargo space.
How Each Hybrid System Works
Both 2027 Lexus NX hybrid models use an e-Axle that integrates the transaxle, motor, and power control unit, and that packaging lowers the center of gravity. Silicon-carbide power semiconductors in the inverter improve efficiency. Lexus engineered both systems around a revised 2.5-liter engine.
NX 350h: Hybrid Operation
The NX 350h pairs the 2.5-liter gas engine with electric motor-generators. It still burns fuel, but you never connect it to a charger. Updated battery power management and more motor-generator power during acceleration keep engine rpm in sync with vehicle speed, which gives a more linear feel.
NX 450h+: Plug-In Hybrid Operation
The NX 450h+ adds a 22.7-kWh lithium-ion battery (vs. the NX 350h’s 1.1 kWh) that you charge externally, and it can run on electricity alone at speeds up to 84 mph, so even freeway stretches can be gas-free. Updated programming coordinates the motor and engine during the switch from EV to hybrid mode, and when the battery is depleted, it simply keeps running as a hybrid, so you’re never stranded. It has a standard power charge port door and an NACS (SAE J3400) port with DC fast-charging capability.
Performance and Driving Experience
Power matters, but so does how the NX feels in stop-and-go traffic and on freeway on-ramps. Updates to the chassis, steering, accelerator, and brakes refine handling and ride comfort across the 2027 NX.
Horsepower, Torque, and Acceleration
Both use the same revised 2.5-liter engine, rated at 186 hp at 6,000 rpm and 173 lb-ft at 4,200 rpm. The NX 350h adds a 160-hp front motor-generator and, on AWD models, a 54-hp, 91-lb-ft rear motor, for a preliminary 244 hp combined and 0–60 mph in as little as 6.7 seconds. The NX 450h+ steps up to a 203-hp front motor-generator plus the same rear motor, for a preliminary 324 hp combined, and its 5.7-second 0–60 time makes it the clear choice for drivers who want stronger acceleration on freeway on-ramps.
Ride, Handling, and F SPORT Options
Grades without Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) get shocks with ultra-low-speed valves. They respond to small movements and keep the body flatter over undulations. AVS is exclusive to F SPORT, which also adds 20-inch aluminum wheels and available red brake calipers. All grades have a variable-ratio steering rack and a 14.2-inch steering wheel, 0.4 inches smaller than before. Cabin engine noise is down 20% versus the 2026 NX.
Efficiency and Electric Range
Efficiency depends on how you drive. For the NX 450h+, it also depends on how often you plug in. Official EPA ratings will come closer to the on-sale date, and actual results vary.
NX 450h+ EV Range and What Affects It
The NX 450h+ has a manufacturer-estimated 45 miles of all-electric range (a projected EPA rating of 44 to 46 miles), and it can drive electrically at up to 84 mph. If your daily round trip fits within that range and you charge each night, much of your week could run on electricity alone, freeway miles included. Real-world range varies with temperature, A/C use, speed, terrain and driving style, so hot Southern California afternoons or climbs up freeway grades can shorten it.
MPG and MPGe Comparison
We're using MPG figures here, since MPGe isn't provided for these estimates. The table above shows city, highway, and combined MPG. The NX 350h FWD leads at 40 combined, while the NX 450h+ F SPORT is at 36. The gap is small, and plug-in owners who charge regularly use less gasoline in daily driving.
Curious how this fits your commute? Explore our Lexus electrified lineup or contact us.
Charging Requirements and Everyday Usability
Only the NX 450h+ involves charging. The NX 350h never needs a plug.
Level 1 vs. Level 2 Charging Times
Every NX 450h+ comes with a dual-voltage charging cable that plugs into a standard 120V household outlet for Level 1 charging, or a 240V NEMA 14-50 outlet for faster Level 2 charging (installed by a licensed electrician). On Level 2, it charges from 10% to 100% in about 2.5 hours under ideal conditions, enough to fill up overnight with plenty of time to spare. On the road, DC fast charging takes it from 10% to 80% in about 35 minutes at a 50-kW station, and the included AC and DC adapters let you plug in at public J1772 and CCS stations as well as NACS chargers.
Cargo Space, Interior, and Technology
Here’s a big advantage for plug-in shoppers: the NX 450h+’s larger battery doesn’t cost you cargo space. Both models offer the same 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, enough for strollers, sports gear or a week of groceries. Inside, every 2027 NX includes a 14-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen and a 12.3-inch Multi-Information Display, with an integrated Drive Recorder, split-screen viewing and over-the-air updates. On the F SPORT and Luxury, Sensory Concierge coordinates lighting, music, climate, seat temperature and fragrance across three modes.
Price, Incentives, and Cost of Ownership
The right choice for your budget depends on how you drive. A plug-in typically carries an upfront premium, and its savings depend on how many of your miles run on electricity, balanced against home electricity rates and any Level 2 charger installation. The NX 350h skips charging altogether and still delivers up to 40 combined mpg. Both models recommend premium fuel, so every electric mile in the NX 450h+ saves you more at the pump.
Incentives are time-sensitive and eligibility varies. Confirm current incentive and HOV/clean-air-vehicle rules with us or a tax professional. If you plan to finance, you can get pre-approved.
Which 2027 Lexus NX Hybrid Fits Your Driving Habits?
For El Monte drivers, think about a typical week: commute length, where you park, and how often you take longer trips. Both are strong choices. They simply suit different routines.
Choose the NX 350h If…
You have no home charger or garage access.
Your commute is mostly long freeway miles.
You want a hybrid you never have to think about.
You like the choice of FWD or AWD on Premium and Premium+.
The NX 450h+ Fits Best When…
You can charge at home or work.
Your daily trips are short and fit within the 45-mile estimated EV range.
You spend time in stop-and-go traffic and want to drive electrically.
You want the 324 hp of combined output.
Shop New Lexus NX Models at Longo Lexus
The best way to choose between hybrid and plug-in is to feel the difference yourself. Shop new Lexus NX models at Longo Lexus, then schedule a back-to-back test drive of the NX 350h and NX 450h+. Take each one on the 10 or the 60, feel the plug-in’s quicker 5.7-second acceleration and quiet electric cruising, and see how the hybrid’s seamless efficiency fits your routine.
When you visit, our team can help you:
Compare grades side by side, from Premium to F SPORT and Luxury.
Plan your home charging setup for the NX 450h+.
Review current incentives and get pre-approved for financing.
Visit us at 3530 Peck Rd in El Monte or call sales at 626-539-2955. We’re open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
FAQs About the 2027 Lexus NX 350h and NX 450h+
Does the NX 450h+ need to be plugged in? No, but you get the most from it when you charge it regularly.
Does the NX 350h ever need plugging in? No. It never needs a plug.
How long does the NX 450h+ take to charge? In ideal conditions, as little as 2.5 hours from 10% to 100% on 240V AC, or 35 minutes from 10% to 80% at a 50-kW DC station.
Does the NX 450h+ work without a charged battery? Yes. It runs as a hybrid when the battery is depleted.
Which powertrains does the 2027 NX offer? The NX 350h (HEV) and NX 450h+ (PHEV), both in Premium, Premium+, F SPORT, and Luxury grades.
What drivetrain does the NX 450h+ have? AWD on every grade.